Eddy’s Pub & Sports Bar, a new business venture of chef/owners Ednardo Cardoso and Ednelio Flores, opened to the public on March 12 at 120 Stafford St., Worcester.
Owners say the Webster Square neighborhood pub is the ultimate spot for catching all sports action, offering a vibrant atmosphere, sports memorabilia and multiple large-screen TVs. “Variety of food, drinks and specialty cocktails make it an all-around enjoyable experience,” they said. The business has no association with the former Eddy’s Pub on West Boylston Street in Worcester. “We get so many questions, with people thinking that the old Eddy’s has made a comeback,” said Cardoso, who explained that he and his partner both are known by the first name “Eddy” and decided to name the pub after themselves. Note: Stogotz Tapas Restaurant and Piano Bar previously occupied the pub space, closing after less than a year in 2023.
Cardoso in December 2022 partnered in the opening of Two Chefs Italian Restaurant & Bar, 317 West Boylston St., Worcester, former location of Wild Willy’s, Eddy’s Pub and Stuart’s Diner. He remains an active partner of Two Chefs. In 2023, Cardoso also announced restaurant plans for the ground level of the Union Station Garage on Franklin Street in Worcester. When asked about an update on the space, Cardoso said, “It’s still a possibility,” adding that for now he’s concentrating on getting Eddy’s Pub successfully off the ground.
Flores, executive chef at Eddy’s Pub, is familiar with the local restaurant scene, having cooked 12 years at VIA Italian Table and 10 years at Funky Murphys Bar & Grill, both in Worcester. He and Cardoso first met while working the back of the house at VIA. “We had often talked about opening a restaurant together,” said Flores.
It took about a year to open Eddy’s Pub & Sports Bar, with the owners investing heavily in commercial-grade kitchen equipment and necessary renovations, said Cardoso, who works the front of the house and helps in the kitchen if needed. His son, Gabriele Cardoso, is the pub’s GM.
Eddy’s Pub & Sports Bar kitchen hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday, Monday and Wednesday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Currently, closed Tuesday. The bar remains open after kitchen closes. Seating is 90 in dining and bar areas. Telephone: (508) 304-9888; Connect on social media. Note: The pub’s wooden bar with unique features was crafted by Cardoso. Check it out.
The pub menu features a mix of appetizers, salads, full meals, with comfort food staples like burgers and sandwiches, fish and chips and pasta and meatballs, chicken Parmesan and steak tips with truffle fries, alongside options, such as North Atlantic Salmon and Cajun Ribeye.
A favorite of Chef Flores is the Steak Bites App, pan seared steak and onions, served with yuca fries. Cardoso’s pick is the Beef Brisket Sandwich, slow roasted brisket, Swiss cheese, caramelized onions “smothered” with the pub’s homemade zesty ranch, served between a pressed focaccia bread. “Our customers love that sandwich,” said Cardoso. “It’s a popular choice in a short time.”
Sometime in April, owners said they will make a few changes to the current menu. “We want to add lunch specials and a couple new signature drinks and beers on tap,” said Cardoso. Rising food costs and consumers’ tastes and preferences constantly change, requiring restaurants to adapt menus, he said. Currently, the pub’s menu prices range from $8.99 to $24.99. Also, a few menu items echo those from Cardoso’s other restaurant, Two Chefs.
The owners look toward to a grand opening celebration of the pub before the end of April. “Probably, on a Tuesday,” they said.
“We’re extremely happy with this location,” added Cardoso. “There’s plenty of parking, especially after 5 p.m. when most retail businesses in the plaza close.” They also hinted at possible outdoor activities this summer.
Eddy’s Pub & Sports Bar is a welcoming go-to neighborhood pub, even if you’re not a passionate sports fan. After all, some customers are perfectly content with a casual vibe, paired with drinks and shareable plates.
If you have a tidbit for the column, call (508) 868-5282. Send email to [email protected].